PTI Seeks Delay in Senate Elections Amid Controversy

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has sought to delay the election of the Senate chairman and deputy chairman, scheduled for tomorrow, until after polls are held on vacant seats from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The PTI senators filed a plea in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) and wrote a letter to the Senate secretary, raising concerns over the election process.

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) had postponed polls on 11 seats from KP due to a controversy over oath-taking by opposition lawmakers on reserved seats. Despite this, elections were held on 19 seats, resulting in the ruling coalition, led by PML-N, securing a majority in the Senate.

President Asif Ali Zardari has called for a Senate session on April 9 to swear in newly elected members and elect the chairman and deputy chairman. However, the PTI has decided to boycott the polls until the representation of KP senators is ensured.

In response to the PTI's plea, the IHC heard the case despite objections and sought a response from the ECP. The PTI senators argued that holding elections for top Senate positions without filling vacant seats in KP would be unconstitutional.

The IHC has reserved its verdict on the matter and issued notices to the ECP. The PTI senators have urged the court to set aside the ECP's decision to delay polls in KP and ensure that elections for vacant seats are held before electing the Senate chairman and deputy chairman.

In conclusion, the PTI's efforts to delay the Senate elections highlight the ongoing political tensions surrounding the Senate composition. The outcome of the IHC's decision will have significant implications for the Senate's future proceedings.